Temitope Osoba, a beloved Yoruba Nollywood actress, passed away on the evening of Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the age of 40. Her final public message, posted on WhatsApp the eve of her death, read "Ogo Tuntun," a Yoruba phrase meaning "A New Glory." Osoba had publicly battled breast cancer in 2024, underwent surgery, and returned to acting after announcing she had beaten the disease in 2025.
Discovery and Early Career
Temitope Kofoworola Osoba was born on December 2, 1985, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Raised by her grandparents after losing both parents at a young age, she initially built a career as a professional dancer and video vixen. Her entry into acting was serendipitous: in 2005, while walking back from school in Lagos, she stumbled into a movie rehearsal area and was selected on the spot for a dancing role in actress Laide Bakare's film Ijoya. She never left the industry.
Before acting became her primary focus, Osoba appeared in music videos for artists including Olu Maintain and Pasuma. She later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Olabisi Onabanjo University and went on to build a two-decade career in Yoruba Nollywood.
Career Highlights and Productions
Osoba became a familiar face in numerous productions, including Gucci Girls, Igboro Ti Daru, Oogun Mi, Ifedolapo, and Accident. She also stepped behind the camera, producing her own film, Single Ladies. Her colleagues remember her as a dedicated and passionate performer.
Breast Cancer Battle and Public Appeal
In late 2024, Osoba discovered a lump in her breast during a routine self-examination. Choosing transparency, she went public with her diagnosis immediately, stating she wanted to encourage other women to prioritize their health. The financial burden was immense: her corrective surgery cost ₦12 million, a sum far beyond her personal means. She appealed publicly for assistance, and the industry responded. Actresses Foluke Daramola and Iyabo Ojo spearheaded fundraising efforts, with fans and colleagues contributing across social media.
Osoba underwent surgery in November 2024 and began treatment. In August 2025, she joyfully announced that she had beaten cancer. In her statement, she wrote: "Dear beloved fans, supporters and loved ones, I'm Temitope Osoba, and after my cancer experience, I'm excited to announce my reintroduction. This journey has been a turning point, leading to my rebranding, reshaping and rebuilding. I'm emerging stronger, more resilient and more passionate about sharing my story and inspiring others."
Return to Acting and Final Days
After her recovery, Osoba returned to acting, promoting her latest film Cost of A Lie. In December 2025, she turned 40, describing the milestone as "a victory, a blessing and a reminder that miracles happen." However, on the eve of her death, she posted a WhatsApp status reading "Ogo Tuntun," which according to a report by Asaase Radio, was her final public message.
Tributes and Legacy
Her colleague and close associate Alesh Ola Sanni announced her passing on Instagram the following morning, writing: "Couldn't sleep since last night. It's well. Rest in peace my dearest sister Temitope Osoba. We had amazing time and good memories together, till we meet again. I really dunno what to say mehn, gosh." Tributes have poured in from across the Nigerian film industry. Osoba never married and is survived by her family.
Her legacy as an actress who faced adversity with courage and used her platform to inspire others will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
